Private accommodation

Finding accommodation in Auckland, and near to AUT, can be difficult if you don’t already live here. This information describes flat-sharing (shared living in a privately rented property) and other accommodation options.

AUT has not inspected or endorsed the accommodation options described on this page. You must contact the provider directly for details or more information.

Accommodation types

The type of accommodation you choose might depend on your budget and how long you want to stay.

Some types of popular accommodation include:

Apartments and houses

Homestays (living with a family)

Backpackers and hostels

Student accommodation

Choosing accommodation

You should think about:

How long you need to stay (short-term or long-term – a semester or longer?)

If you want to live by yourself or with other people

How close you want to be to shops and transport

How much it will cost you to travel to AUT

Short-term accommodation may be a good option if you are new to Auckland and want somewhere to stay while you settle in and look for longer-term accommodation.

Long-term accommodation is more cost-effective. You should expect to pay a ‘bond’ (security deposit) and some rent in advance. You get your bond back at the end of your stay if you leave the property in good condition.

Long-term accommodation for either a semester or a full academic year is more cost effective while living in Auckland. Expect to pay a bond (typically two-four weeks of rent), and also one week's rent (or more) in advance. The bond is returned to you at the end of your stay as long as the property is in a clean and tidy condition.

Accommodation close to South Campus

Are you new to Auckland and have not yet managed to secure accommodation? We recommend a short-term option such as a backpackers or youth hostel. These give you time to get settled into Auckland while you look for somewhere suitable to live longer term.

Real estate agents

Renting your own private apartment or house is suitable for students who want to live on their own, or for postgraduate students who need accommodation that is suitable for a family.

Keep in mind that most rentals in central Auckland are very expensive. Suburbs are slightly cheaper but you should consider what the daily transport costs will be to AUT.

When looking for accommodation you should only use a real estate agency that is registered with the Real Estate Institute of NZ (REINZ). If the agent and the property manager representing the real estate agency is not a member we do not recommend you use them.